Ranger and Stephanie belong to Janet. The weird ways I incorporate them into stories is all me.

"About that offer to be a full-time Rangeman employee ...?"

"Been waiting forever for you to take me up on it."

"Consider today your lucky day then, because I am."

"Doesn't feel lucky."

"Except it is. I got hurt, but I'm not dead."

"Folkson is going to pay for that."

"Good. I should feel bad for him, but I really don't."

"He doesn't deserve your sympathy or my mercy."

"If my ribs didn't hurt so much, maybe I'd feel more charitable."

"Junior is bringing Rex to seven. You're staying with me."

"Kidnapping me from the ER is probably a no-no."

"Loving you isn't."

"Mary Lou was right ... that I'd be living with you by the end of the month."

"Never underestimate best friend-intuition."

"Or an opportunistic boyfriend."

"Perhaps he's just a protective one."

"Quit trying to seduce me. You know I waved that white flag months ago."

"Relax, Babe. I'm not pushing, only ..."

"Suggesting?"

"Talking about our possibilities ... that extend beyond the job."

"Us as a cohabitating couple?"

"Verifying that we are much more than just co-workers."

"When do I start being a co-worker?"

"X-ray first. Then we'll talk about your new hours and likely new home."

"Yes, Sir. Though I can tell there's nothing broken."

"Zip will make sure your FTA's broken regardless."